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MOFD and UC Master Gardeners plan Firewise demonstration garden at Station 42
Summary
Steve Danziger presented a volunteer-led Firewise demonstration garden plan for MOFD Station 42 that will show low-water, defensible-space landscaping and host public education events.
Steve Danziger, a UC Master Gardener and MOFD ambassador, presented plans on Nov. 12 for a Firewise Demonstration Garden adjacent to MOFD Station 42 at 555 Moraga Road. The garden is designed as a hands-on display of defensible-space landscaping, water-wise native and Mediterranean plants, low-water drip irrigation, noncombustible fencing options, and hardscape alternatives.
Danziger said the primary planting area is approximately 100 feet long by 20 feet, with an additional 50-foot area behind redwoods. The project will include a roughly 6-foot informational kiosk with brochures and QR-code signage for plant identification and will host at least four educational events open to the public.
Funding and partnerships: Danziger said volunteers and sponsors have raised about $7,000 so far and that the total project cost is likely to be around $20,000. He stated that East Bay Municipal Utility District (East Bay MUD) is a likely grant source to cover irrigation costs (he estimated roughly $5,000); the UC Master Gardener program also has funds to cover shortfalls. Danziger said local contractors and retail partners may provide materials at cost and that he is seeking in-kind assistance (for example, a few hours of minimal equipment such as a bobcat for grading) from town staff when needed.
Danziger emphasized the garden’s educational aim: residents should be able to see practical examples of Zone 0 and Zone 1 home-hardening measures and pick up actionable information on home hardening and composting. Councilmembers praised the design and encouraged coordination with the town’s Art in Public Places and parks and recreation staff to incorporate public art and signage.
No council funding was requested at the meeting; Danziger said the project seeks sponsorships and volunteer labor and would coordinate with town staff for any limited equipment needs.
Provenance: Presentation and Q&A during Agenda Item 3b (MOFD Station 42 Firewise Demonstration Garden).
